Govt launches mobile health service Kilkari and mobile academy in Maharashtra, Gujarat

Mobile Academy, a free audio training course designed to expand and refresh the knowledge of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and improve their communication skills 

Prof SP Singh Baghel and Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar, Union Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare virtually launched the Kilkari programme, a Mobile Health (m-health) initiative for beneficiaries in local content in Gujarat and Maharashtra. Mobile Academy, a free audio training course designed to expand and refresh the knowledge of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and improve their communication skills via their mobile phones was also launched. Rushikesh Patel, Health Minister, Gujarat was also present on the occasion.

Applauding the health care professionals, especially the front-line health workers for their contributions in taking up the ‘Kilkari’ Programme, Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar said that the programme aims to offer weekly services, timely accessible, accurate and pertinent 72 audio messages through IVRS about reproductive maternal, neonatal and child health care to the targeted beneficiaries.

Prof SP Singh Baghel said, “The launch of the Kilkari Programme is in line with the government’s commitment to prioritise the public health infrastructure and strengthen citizen-centric health services by leveraging India’s expanding mobile phone penetration.”

The Union Ministers also appreciated the efforts of all stakeholders involved in the launch of the and invited suggestions from the stakeholders to strengthen the programme further.

Rushikesh Patel, Health Minister, Gujarat thanked the Union Government for the launch of the two initiatives. He also highlighted that more than 95 per cent of deliveries in Gujarat are now institutional which is leading to safer deliveries for both mothers and children.

PIB